It's December, which means the famous Posadas are here—at work, at school, and with family. If you've been put in charge of organizing one, don't panic! Here are some tips to make sure you don't overlook anything and have a fun evening.
Most people think organizing a party is no big deal. And while organizing a Posada is simple, putting on a good one takes a little more effort.
Follow my simple tips, and I guarantee you'll have a memorable Posada.
Let's get started!
ORGANIZATION
It may sound like a cliché, but it's absolutely true: organization is the most important thing when you're hosting a Posada. Don't just wing it or leave things to chance. People who don't take organization seriously end up forgetting details that they have to sort out the day before—or even on the day itself.
It depends on how you prefer to work. For example, I like making lists and tables in online documents because it's easier for me, since I'm always using a computer, tablet, or phone. But you can use a notebook and pen if that works better for you.
The most essential lists will be:
- guest list
- contribution amount and payment record
- shopping list
- guests' phone numbers, party venue contacts, chair rental contacts, etc.
A LEADER, NOT A BOSS
Being in charge doesn't give you the right to make all the decisions on your own. It's important to take everyone's preferences into account when planning the Posada, as far as possible. If one person suggests yellow and another suggests orange, you'll need to reach an agreement. You won't always be able to please everyone, but the main point is to listen, communicate with the guests, ask questions, take votes, and be fair.
For example, you might need to choose the food, location, contribution amount, venue, or music. I should also mention that some people are very difficult: they don't like offering suggestions, only criticizing. Don't let them get you down. If your guests or team are being lazy and not contributing anything, be direct and say “Since no one is giving me any suggestions, I'll take the liberty of making a decision,” There will always be people who complain about what you decide, even though they haven't offered any better options.
[irp posts=»335″ name=»3 simple tips for being happier at work»]
MUSIC
A Posada without music? If there is one, how boring! Music is essential at any gathering, party, get-together, and so on. These days, there are simple options such as “Spotify,” which lets you create playlists and download them for offline listening, and offers music tips and recommendations based on what you've entered. So there's no excuse for neglecting the music.
I created a playlist called “POSADA” (I know, very original), set it to shared, and sent the link to the guests so everyone could add songs they liked. Then you just have to arrange the tracks. Some people don't think it's important, but I do. It would be strange to play a ballad, then hip-hop, then banda music, and then a Christmas carol. I organized the songs by genre: pop, rock, pop rock, ballads, metal, then some mellow reggaeton. Halfway through the playlist, I added “perreo intenso”—a Mexican slang term for upbeat dance music—and finished with cumbia and banda, which is usually how the music at a Posada progresses.
PIÑATA, SWEETS, AND CHRISTMAS CAROLS
These 3 things are typical of Posadas. A lot depends on the style and the way your guests celebrate; you'll know them and have a good idea of the kind of atmosphere they usually enjoy. Still, many people might turn down these options, but as soon as there's a piñata, everyone wants a turn hitting it. It's fun and a hallmark of Posadas, so if you're up for it, don't skip it. These days, you can get creative with what you put inside the piñata: sweets, money, condoms, toys, or anything else you can think of.
Singing Christmas carols is becoming less common, but it's a lovely tradition. If you like the idea, encourage your guests to take part.
TREASURER
It’s a good idea to have one person handle the money exclusively, since keeping track of every detail as well as the finances can be a lot to manage.
Have a trusted ally by your side to take care of payments, keep track of the money, and look after it. That way, you’ll have one less thing to worry about.
Other things to consider:
Here’s a list of the essentials for a Posada, so you don’t forget anything.
- Dinner: what to serve, where to buy it, and comparing prices.
- Drinks: ponche, soft drinks, or have everyone bring what they want to drink.
- Snacks: What do your guests prefer? Chicharrones, tuna dip, chamoy, chips, sausages, etc.
- Music: a good sound system, a laptop or another way to control the music, or a jukebox. Put together a playlist in advance.
- Comfort: Make sure you have enough chairs and tables, and keep the phone numbers of rental companies handy.
- Disposable tableware: Make sure you have enough cups, plates, forks, and napkins.
- Accessibility: Choose a location that’s close to most guests or easy to get to. Give clear directions, make a map, and arrange carpools or affordable transportation.
So, after doing a great job as the host of a Posada, don’t forget to enjoy yourself to the fullest!
